Swimmer's itch reported at numerous area beaches

NEWS RELEASE

ALGOMA PUBLIC HEALTH

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Swimmer’s itch and beach safety

Algoma Public Health has received calls from swimmers complaining of an itchy rash after swimming at numerous area beaches this summer.

Swimmer’s itch (schistosomiasis) is caused by minute larvae in the water that can come from snails and birds.

When a swimmer emerges from the water, the larvae are present in the water on your skin.

As the water on the bather’s skin evaporates, the larvae quickly burrow into the swimmer’s skin, causing an itchy rash.

Once in the swimmer’s skin, the larvae can no longer live.

The skin’s reaction to the larvae results in discomfort.

Symptoms of swimmer's itch may include:

• tingling, burning, or itching of the skin
• small reddish pimples
• small blisters

Itching may last up to a week or more, but will gradually go away.

Be careful not to scratch the rash as this can lead to infections.

Swimmer's itch is not contagious and cannot be spread from one person to another.

To reduce the likelihood of developing swimmer's itch, Algoma Public Health recommends:

• Do not swim in areas where swimmer's itch is a known problem.
• Do not swim near or wade in marshy areas where snails are commonly found.
• Towel dry or shower immediately after leaving the water.
• Do not attract birds (e.g. by feeding them) to areas where people are swimming.

Algoma Public Health would like to remind area residents to become educated swimmers/bathers.

Heavy rainfall, high winds, high numbers of swimmers, waterfowl and warm water temperatures can all increase the number of bacteria in beach water.

These factors can affect the water quality for up to 48 hours.

The extent of the contamination will be different at each beach.

Before swimming, take into consideration the past day’s weather and the current conditions of the beach.

The public is encouraged to visit the Beach Warnings section on Algoma Public Health’s website to view an interactive map of the beaches sampled and any current warnings or postings.

Stay current on beach safety by 'liking' our Facebook page.

Swimmer’s itch is not tested by Algoma Public Health during its routine sampling.

For tips on how to prevent swimmer’s itch, click here.

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